In 2015, the Mayor of Kelowna received the title ‘Mayor Sugarplum’ after approving the painting of a rainbow crosswalk to represent our city’s inclusive and diverse community. From this the idea the Sugarplum Ball was born; an event to celebrate and embrace the diversity in our community.

2016 marked the inaugural Sugarplum Ball, an event that was planned as a one-time celebration. After its success in selling out to 400 young (and young at heart) guests, the Sugarplum Ball’s future as a recurring event was solidified. Last year’s event was the first of its kind in the Okanagan – multiple parties, a drag runway featuring the Mayor and local celebrities, and most importantly an atmosphere of inclusivity.

Drew Vincent of the Okanagan Young Professionals said “This event is about our community coming together to show the world that Kelowna is welcoming to all and a progressive and vibrant community. We’re driving this initiative because it matters to young people. They want to be part of a progressive community and this event highlights just that, and we have a mayor that goes out of his way to push this community forward.”

“Last year’s ball was such a success, we knew we had to stage it again,” said Dustyn Baulkham President of OPS. “We’re building up the event this year with some exciting secret performances that will be revealed closer to the event. It’s going to be an incredible night.”

In 2016 the Sugarplum Ball made international headlines and over three million web impressions as a progressive and inclusive event. There are still opportunities to get involved as a sponsor. To learn more about these opportunities visit the OYP Website or contact Dustyn Baulkham.